In Pixar's Cars 2, which race series is competed in by Lightning McQueen around the world?

In Pixar's Cars 2, Lightning McQueen competes in the World Grand Prix. The international series is organized by Miles Axlerod to promote Allinol, a new alternative fuel, and takes the racers to Japan, Italy, and England.

Lightning enters after being challenged by Francesco Bernoulli, an Italian Formula-style racer. The competition gives the sequel a global structure, unlike the first Cars film's focus on Radiator Springs and American stock-car racing.

The World Grand Prix also drives the spy-thriller plot. Mater becomes involved with British agents Finn McMissile and Holley Shiftwell after being mistaken for an American spy. The races are secretly connected to a plot involving modified weapons and the Allinol fuel, so the sporting event has consequences beyond the final standings.